Homecoming

Homecoming this year was a blast!!

It was an incredible experience-- being an upperclassman, getting to see the freshmen enjoy the bonfire initiation and their own excitement; and to see the alums from '69 or '78 come back to relive Homecoming. I remember being in the same position as the freshmen, a year ago.

This is when things will start to become exciting-- as the freshmen begin to acclimate to Dartmouth, their new home for the next four years.

I ran to the bonfire with three of my closest friends, and we huddled together in the cold, watching the freshmen run in circles.... I even caught a glimpse of a few seniors running beside the freshmen. As some enter, others leave.

It made me think that our time at Dartmouth is short, but should be well-lived.

Monday, Wednesday, Friday Classes

So this term I signed up for Economics 10 (statistics), Economics 22 (macroeconomics), and a Marketing class offered by Tuck, the graduate school of business.

I guess one could say that I lucked out-- my professors are absolutely amazing!

On Mondays, Wednesdays, and Fridays, I have two classes-- Econ 10 and Econ 22.

My Economics 10 professor is Ms. Maura Doyle. Energetic and patient, I find that she really tries hard to keep her students engaged and learning. She brings the class chocolate coffee beans every morning!

My Economics 22 professor is also amazing. Her name is Ms. Marjorie Rose. She reminds me a lot of my mother-- who also happens to be a professor (at UT). She's funny, and actually makes economics interesting! She comes up with silly chants to remember formulas, and is always entertaining!

I guess I really lucked out this term!

Back at Dartmouth!

I just got back to Dartmouth a few days ago-- and moved into my new dorm. Compared to McLane, the Fayerweathers aren't that great, but they do have a touch of Dartmouth's history! On the back of my dorm room door there's a sign that gives instructions in case of an air raid!

I LOVE my roommates this year-- Annie Chen and Roanna Wang. Our room is a two room double with a relatively spacious living room and a slightly more cramped inside sleeping room. Regardless, I know that this year is going to be A LOT of fun!

Classes start on Wednesday. I am so excited!

President Obama's Talk-- Pictures

President Obama addresses the UT student body about the importance of receiving a higher education and the failure of our generation in doing so. He stressed the importance of not only seeking, but completing education. 1/3 of college students in the United States does not graduate; 1/2 of minority students don't. President Obama called education an economic issue-- something that was essential-- if the United States wanted to compete successfully in the global economy.

Protestors stood outside Gregory Gym, where President Obama spoke.

Although they hoped to make an impact, they were probably not very successful. President Obama entered the gym through the back entrance.

Spain

The last part of my European trip was Madrid.

Our family rented an apartment in the heart of city-- right as the World Cup Finals were in session.

It was amazing to be in a city so involved in a national sport. I couldn't help but wish that United States had a national sport!!

We didn't actually spend much time exploring Madrid itself-- although we walked around some of the streets near our apartment in search of food (my mom's a vegetarian... and we actually found that getting vegetarian food was quite difficult).

The most interesting part of our journey? Seeing a group of Hari Krishna fans dancing through the streets of Madrid!

While in Spain, we took a trip to Segovia-- the place where Isabella and Ferdinand first met each other. Their palace was a sight to see!! Interestingly enough, it was much smaller than I expected.

The town of Segovia was beautiful and quaint.

Spain certainly was an experience!

President Obama's Talk

Yesterday I had the great honor of getting to hear President Obama speak at the the Gregory Gym at the University of Texas.

He talked to the audience about the importance of higher education-- stressing that "education is an economic issue". He quoted some statistics that are particularly frightening: 1/3 of college students don't graduate, and 1/2 of minorities don't. In one generation alone, he said, the United States has fallen from 1st to 12th place in its ability to produce graduates. In our current economic state, and with the growth of the world economy, education is necessary.

To be able to hear President Obama speak, live, was surreal. His charisma resonated through the auditorium. But perhaps stronger than his presence was his message-- the importance of education.

I'll post pictures from the talk later tonight!

Turkey

After a few days in Germany, my family jet-set for Turkey-- the meeting place of the east and west.

I eagerly anticipated our touchdown in Istanbul; before going to Turkey, I had never visited a primarily Islamic nation before.

A view of Istanbul from above:

From the plane, overlooking the city, I was shocked by the prevalence of mosques-- and instantly I knew I was going to experience a culture very unlike my own.

Our family had rented an apartment for our five day trip--- tucked away in a small alley, it was comfortably located close to the Blue Mosque and Hagia Sofia.

Street vendors swarmed the streets-- all of them singing praises and eagerly urging you to enter their shops. The strong smell of spices and smoke filled the streets as well; and apple tee was offered to us on a regular basis.

I was shocked to see so many men on the streets-- working in the shops. Women traveled with their husbands, most wearing the hijab, covering their hair. Although traditional, the Turkish did not discriminate against those who chose not to cover their hair or face-- in fact, Turkey has banned the hijab in school and university settings.

One evening our family went to see a bellydancing performance, which was quite entertaining!! The best part? My mother and I got up and participated in a demonstration. I can only imagine how funny that would have been for my brother and father who were watching!!

We spent a lot of our time in Turkey wandering through the streets, visiting mosques, the underground cistern, and even taking a boat ride on the Bosphorous. There was just so much to absorb!

A view of the Roman underground cistern in Istanbul:

Germany

My mother had a marketing conference in Cologne, Germany, and so the entire family decided to tag along.

Germany was a wonderful place to visit. Although my family loves to travel, we had yet to make our way to Germany, and I was eager to see how Germany was compared to some of the other European countries (England, France, Greece, etc.).

Whenever I visit a place, I try to imagine living there-- and try to consider what lifestyle the average citizen there has.

We first stayed in Berlin-- where we got to experience the culture to the fullest. We visited the underground bunkers, made sure to taste some of the German cuisine, and spent a lot of time walking around the city. Of course-- we also saw the Berlin wall and Check-point Charlie while we were there.

While in Berlin, we grabbed a train to see the concentration camp in Sachsenshausen. Lonely and prison-like, the thought of the many atrocities that had occurred within the walls of the camp sent shivers down my spine.

After a few days, my family took a train to Cologne, Germany, where my mother's conference was located. Cologne is famous for having one of the world's largest cathedrals. It stands, imposing, in the middle of the city... and constant reminder of the marvelous engineering of past generations.

An added bonus? Our family was lucky enough to hear the wonderful organ playing of Professor Bönig, from the University of Cologne. To imagine! Hundreds of years of history-- to be able to sit and listen to some of the same music that would have filled the cathedral years ago was quite breathtaking!

To be able to walk around the streets of both Berlin and Cologne was lovely in itself. One can learn so much from simply observing!

Beautiful, no?:

A segment of the Berlin Wall:

My brother and I in front of the Brandenburg Tor in Berlin:

My Summer

Sorry for the long break!

I recently got back from my Europe trip--and it was a great experience!

I'm going to post a few pictures from my trip-- and along with the photos, a few stories!

The End of a Great Year

Freshman year has come to an end...what wonderful memories I had!

Leaving campus is a bittersweet feeling--I'm going to miss Dartmouth-- my friends, my floormates, and some of my classes.

But I'm glad to go home and spend some time with my family. This summer I'm going to Turkey, Germany, Spain, London, and perhaps California and India... so I have a lot to look forward to!

After my trip to Turkey, Germany, and Spain, I've been fortunate enough to secure a research position with Professor Rebecca Bigler, a psychology professor, at the University of Texas.

I can't wait!

I'll keep you posted on my summer and I'll see you in the fall!

Milan's Senior Send-Off

Yesterday was Milan's Senior Send-off. The South Asian organization, cooked a homemade meal and spent about two hours just relaxing in each other's company.

With the delicious food and the wonderful company, it was an absolutely amazing break from studying!

However, it did make me contemplate the fact that freshman year is already coming to a close... and the thought just seemed unfathomable. I can't wait to see what sophomore year has in store for me!

Midnight Madness

Two days ago, in a spurt of craziness, our floor, McLane 2 decided to walk around campus.

We walked pass the Green on our way to Late Night Collis (a place to get really good food if you're studying) and saw that the sprinklers were on. In a split second, we all looked at each other and then immediately made our way to the sprinklers, running the entire way.

It was so simple, but sooo much fun. The best part? Seeing the faces of people at Collis when we all walked in dripping wet. Perhaps we'll repeat it tonight?

Culture Night!!

Culture Night this year is on May 23.

I'm one of two Culture Night Chairs, and I've been running around, fixing the script, holding rehearsals, and writing the program.

Although a lot of work, I'm glad to be involved in organizing Culture Night-- the South Asian culture-loving performance.

There'll be multiple dances by our Indian dance group, Vandana, and a performance by an all-male acapella group, Taal.

Our competitive dance group is also performing!! I'm looking forward to it!

The Dartmouth Wind Symphony

When I first came to Dartmouth, I made sure to apply for and audition for everything.

In high school, I had spent a considerable amount of time dedicated to band, and I decided that in college, I would expand my interests.

However, I made sure not to let go of my musical interest. I tried out for the Dartmouth Wind Symphony-- Dartmouth's premier winds only ensemble. And I have never regretted that decision.

Under the direction of Mr. Marsit, we have done things that one could only imagine. The kind of music that Mr. Marsit makes us play challenges and excites the ensemble.

Tonight, our performance includes music to the silent film "Pandora's Box", and while we play, the film will be playing behind us.

The music that we play never fails to bring shivers.

In addition to the great music we play, I also get to meet an absolutely amazing group of people. In fact, the DWS is where I met my future roommate Annie.

As I look into the future, I look forward to challenging myself and forming new relationships.

For 2014s who really enjoy music, consider this!

Listen to some of the music from our last concert:

> Husa 1 - http://dl.dropbox.com/u/6422711/Husa%2C%20Music%20for%20Prague%20-%201.mp3

> Husa 2 - http://dl.dropbox.com/u/6422711/Husa%2C%20Music%20for%20Prague%20-%202.mp3

> Husa 3 - http://dl.dropbox.com/u/6422711/Husa%2C%20Music%20for%20Prague%20-%203.mp3

> Husa 4 - http://dl.dropbox.com/u/6422711/Husa%2C%20Music%20for%20Prague%20-%204.mp3

> Marshall - http://dl.dropbox.com/u/6422711/Marshall%2C%20L%27Homme%20Arme.mp3

> Del Tredici - http://dl.dropbox.com/u/6422711/Del%20Tredici%2C%20In%20Wartime.mp3

> Nelson - http://dl.dropbox.com/u/6422711/Nelson%2C%20Morning%20Alleluias.mp3

Collis before Psych

Today I have my Psychology test of the term (the second of five).

There's so much information to know-- sometimes it's a little overwhelming... but to be honest, it doesn't seem like work because I actually enjoy learning about human psychology.

To relax a bit before the test, I woke up this morning and headed to Collis, our community center/café on campus.

With a chocolate chip scone in one and a coffee in the other, I am sitting right now, relaxed... looking forward to the weekend, and in half an hour, hopefully, a good Psychology test!

Dimensions Weekend!!

This past weekend was Dimensions weekend, and it was absolutely fantastic to have the prospies on campus!!

I can't believe that there are going to be and are '14s!

Looking around at all the fresh new faces, I was almost saddened by the fact that I am no longer going to be a freshman.

For those considering Dartmouth, please consider it seriously. The next four years could be amazing. Really.

I look forward to seeing you!!

Annie's Birthday!

Yesterday was Annie's birthday!

I surprised her by decorating her room and taking her to dinner at Mollys.

It was a small group-- Roanna, Mike, Bonita, and I.

The conversation was varied and we laughed the entire time. It truly was a great break!!

At the end of the meal the waiter brought out the fruit tart cheesecake that I got Annie.... mmm.. it was delicious!!

What a 'sweet' way to spend time with good friends!

The Library= My Second Home

There are some days where I essentially spend the entire day at the library. And today is definitely one of those days.

I woke up this morning at 9 o'clock and made my way out the dorm at around 10, ready to do some studying. And aside from the one hour break that I took to go the gym, I've been here.

Although it might sound a little dreary, days like this really make me feel satisfied. I have my first Psychology test on Wednesday, and its slightly reassuring to know that I'm ahead in my studying.

It's days like today when I feel intellectually stimulated. As I sat reading my Psychology textbook, and learning about such things as transcranial magnetic simulation, I am absolutely fascinated. The human body is such an interesting thing-- so interesting in fact, that sitting in the library wasn't such a bad thing after all.

Tomorrow I'll be visiting my second home in the same fashion. And you know what? I'm honestly looking forward to it!

Late Night Volleyball

Last night was absolutely amazing. Amidst the frenzy of week two of spring term, my floor decided to take a break from studying to just have fun.

Volleyball in hand, we all made it to the Choates at around 10 p.m. and played a ridiculously fun game of volleyball in the beach court. The night was dark. There were barely any lights, but still we had fun.

Granted, my volleyball skills were lacking, but then again, so were the skills of my floormates!

"Mine!" Amanda runs past me and steals the ball from me once again.... Amanda... Emily serves with the accuracy. Chidi, my roomate, serves, always in my direction, knowing that I won't be able to hit the ball back.

We spent the hour laughing and relaxing....it was definitely a night to remember!

PE Courses

My Kardio Konditioning gym class begins tomorrow morning!!

Annie (my close friend here at Dartmouth, and future roommate) and I will make the trek to the gym at 7:45 in the morning.

Last term I took a step class with my floormates, which also a lot of fun. It was a great way to get exercise, meet new people and bond!

I eagerly anticipate a morning wake-up!

Dear Prospies

Congratulations to those of you who were accepted!!

As you consider which school you will be attending next year, I hope that you keep Dartmouth close to the top of your list.

Dartmouth can do a lot for you-- I know that I have changed for the better since I arrived in late September, and I want you to seize the opportunity that is available here for you.

Should you have any questions or concerns, please do not hesitate to ask-- I would love to assuage your concerns!

My Final Schedule for the Spring Term

After careful deliberation, I have decided to stick to a three-course workload.

I will be taking: Math 8, French 3, and Psychology.

I have already taken math and french courses here at Dartmouth, and look forward to furthering my knowledge in both fields this term.

Psychology, however, is a class completely new to me. Yesterday, as I opened my Psychology textbook for the first time, my heart jumped a little-- I was so excited!

The professors (there are multiple professors who I will be learning Psychology 1 from), seem really approachable and have a wonderful sense of humor. I can't wait to continue learning more about the mind-brain-behavior connection on Friday!

Four Courses

I also decided over break, in addition to deciding what career path I would like to pursue, that I would challenge myself with four courses. Now, you might think that a four course load is low, but consider the fact that each grading period is only ten weeks, and you might just change your mind.

The typical Dartmouth student will tell you that a three course workload is sufficient. But sometimes there are just so many interesting courses offered, that it's hard to resist!

So, as I continue studying for the rest of the week, I look forward to evaluating my situation.... do I want to take four courses, or focus down on three?

Currently I'm signed up for French 3 (Intermediate French), Math 8 (Calculus), Government 4 (Comparative Politics), and Psychology 1 (Introduction to Psychology).

Today, from 10-1:35 I had the chance to go to French, Math, and Psychology; and I think that I will really enjoy those classes.

Tomorrow, I get to have a little taste of Comparative Politics-- I can't wait!!

Back at Dartmouth!

I arrived on campus this past Saturday, and I have to say, with complete honesty, that I was looking forward to the moment.

Over break, I began to reconsider what path I wanted to take academically. I had always considered a future in the the workforce-- perhaps as an investment banker. But over break, I seriously began to wonder whether that was truly the path for me.

I decided, nerd that I am, to go to a few of my mother's classes (she's a marketing professor at the University of Texas), just to see what it would be like to become a professor; and what a shock I had.

Never before had a truly considered a career as an academic. And the teaching component is only one small part of the job requirement. The truly fun in becoming an academic is the research.

There are so many opportunities to do research. Furthermore, the kinds of problems that professors consider are truly remarkable. Academia offers a way to really make an impact.

So, with all of this knowledge, I decided to change my plan for the next three years here at Dartmouth. I will still remain an economics major, but I am seriously considering a minor in either math or psychology.

I look forward to working with some professors while I'm here at Dartmouth. Where else can I learn better? After all, I am going to the school ranked number one for undergraduate teaching!

Away from Home

After two terms of living on the Dartmouth Campus, I have come to affectionately call it my home.

It's a place where I feel comfortable-- confidant about who I am and where I want to go.

So, when I go home (my other home in Austin) for break, it's hard not to constantly think about Dartmouth.

My new Dartmouth thought for today? I'm going to embrace all that Dartmouth has to offer, and I am going to attempt taking: Psychology 1, Math 8, French 3, and Government 4 next term.

Typically the course load per term is three courses, but there are an array of interesting courses; and I am honestly looking forward to challenging myself. After all, when there are so many resources, why not use them?

Reassurance While Traveling

I always find that the trip home from Dartmouth is full of surprises.

On my journey back home (which officially began yesterday), I have already encountered my fair share of surprises.

This morning, after boarding my flight, I was informed that there was a mechanical failure, and all the passengers had to de-board. We were told that at 12 we would find out the status of the flight-- whether we would be able to fly or not due to the inclement weather.

Luckily for me, I had company. Amidst the crowd of strangers on the flight was a solitary Dartmouth student, dressed in forest green. Welcome to the Dartmouth community.

As my journey continues, I know that I won't be alone. Krista (the other '13) and I are keeping tabs on each other, making sure that the other one is on the appropriate flight, etc.

When traveling, there is no doubt that there is some comfort in numbers. I remember returning to campus after winter break. There were a bunch of Dartmouth students sitting at the Dallas airport, as well as a bunch of Harvard students. One Dartmouth student, as he passed by me in the plane, whispered, " I almost feel like we should be snapping, like the Sharks and the Jets!"

Makes me laugh every time.

The End of Winter Term

It's the end of winter term and finals are over and done with!

I have to honestly say that this was a bit of a relief-- I was beginning to think of my library as my second home...

I'm currently in Boston awaiting a flight back to the great state of Texas tomorrow morning.

As excited as I am about finishing this short term (which is shorter than the rest), I'm also eagerly anticipating Spring term and all that Dartmouth has to offer me in the future. My plans for the upcoming term? Math 8, Government 4, and French 3!

But for now, I think I'll just focusing on relaxing!

Reading Period

It's that dreaded time of the term again. Classes are over and there is a tense atmosphere as the library fills up as early as 8:30 in the morning.

Reading period is the period between the end of classes and the beginning of the examination period.

All around campus, students can be found either frantically looking for a proper place to study or are already well into the fifth chapter of neuroscience.

However, although the intensity of the reading period can often be too much to bear, Dartmouth organizations and members of the local community have found a way to bring a little bit of cheer into what otherwise might be considered a stressful period.

Today, as I was studying, I was greeted by a enormous (yet approachable) gingerbread man (courtesy of Agape, a Christian fellowship of campus) and was offered a Pavillion cookie.

Only a few hours later, I was greeted by an even friendlier community member who was walking around handing out candy to everyone. When I asked what this was for, she simply replied, "Nothing. Just wanted to wish you good luck for finals!"

Same gestures of kindness make a difference. Only at Dartmouth.

Finals Week!

This is week is finals week-- and I can hardly believe it.

The weeks here pass by quickly, which is both a blessing and a curse. (Frankly, I really enjoy the speed at which everything is accomplished here.)

This coming Sunday I have my French 2 final, my Math 3 final and my Government 5 paper due, so there is no doubt that I am going to have a busy week ahead of me!

If I plan things well, however, everything will be completely manageable.

I'm counting the days until I get to see my family again in Austin!

Spice Night 2010

Spice Night 2010 was the day that Vandana's Competitive dance group had its first performance.

Our group, which consists of eight members, had worked really really hard for this performance-- and hoped that it would go well.

As we stood backstage, dressed in our traditional outfits, we all glanced at each other with a slightly apprehensive look. However, once on stage, to the rhythm of the music, everything changed completely.

My partner, Maan and I, were completely swept up by the music. The music, which related the story of two lovers who repeatedly reject each other, became subconscious; and the audience absolutely loved our performance.

Amidst the cheers and hollering, it was truly satisfying to see the payoffs of lots of hard work and dedication.

There is no doubt that the competitive team, which formed just this term, will be quickly making a name for itself on campus.

Vandana Goes to Middlebury

Yesterday Vandana went to Middlebury.

Unaccustomed to traveling for performances, this was an exciting experience, not only for me but for the group as well.

The five of us (all freshmen), Tanay, Krupa, Aarti, Maan and I, boarded a green Toyota Sienna (obtaining this car itself was an adventure) and made our way to Middlebury. Driving on bumpy curved roads, we lost our way multiple times-- only to arrive at Middlebury an hour late.

Upon our arrival, we got to see the other groups performing. Groups from Middlebury, the University of Rochester and Binghamton University. What a sight to see. Students from around the area exactly like us!

Even more exciting was the fact that this was the competitive group's first off-campus trip; and we were quite well prepared.

Mid-afternoon, we realized that the sixth member of our group (and one of our dancer's partners) wasn't going to be able to make it to the performance. We scrambled to find a replacement.

You would not believe what happened. Members from the other group offered to learn the dance. Within a span of two hours, we taught our five minute dance to some of the students from Binghamton University. It truly was a powerful moment.

Our first off-campus trip was certainly an adventure. An unforgettable journey. So unforgettable, that we have a list of over fifteen things on Maan's phone that we vow never to forget.

How many Dartmouth students does it take to rock Middlebury? Five.

Superbowl Sunday!

Today was Superbowl Sunday-- an occasion that I usually spend with my family back at home.

For the first time, I spent this year's Superbowl amongst my Dartmouth family, in Dartmouth's Jewish Community Center.

As we all sat around the large screen T.V., pigging out on cookie dough and pizza, it was refreshing to know that although I wasn't at home with my family, there was something quite close to it!

What a game it was! The Saints beat the Colts-- I do believe that Peyton Manning even shed a tear?!

Yummy Yogurt!

Just discovered the delicious yogurt at Homeplate this past week.

Mix the plain yogurt with a little bit of Dartmouth Granola, chocolate covered pretzels, dried apricot (if you are daring) and a little brown sugar, and this makes a delicious treat!

French with Fabricant

Bonjour!

I distinctly remember my first day in French class.

I walked into Dartmouth Hall, ready to be dazzled, and sat myself down in a desk in what seemed like a traditional classroom. What I came to learn was that what was taught in this particular classroom wasn't taught in a traditional manner.

I had always had a great desire to learn French-- and had never done so during my high school years, and so I knew with a 100% certainty that I was going to take French in Dartmouth. In my French 1 class, from day one, my professor, Madame Fabricant told us that she would talk only in French during our class. Needless to say, I was a little dumbstruck. Not worried (yet), but I knew that this was something that I had to look forward to.

My first term of French at Dartmouth was difficult, I will not lie. I was the only person in my French class who hadn't taken a single class of French, and that put me at a great disadvantage. But I worked, and I worked, and I worked. And now, my second term into French, I enjoy it greatly. I still have Madame Fabricant, who in her own way, demands only excellence. She is particular about accents, and pronunciation, and randomly calls on students in class.

When I don't understand concepts, I know that I can go to her for extra assistance. With the help of Madame, I look forward to speaking fluent French sometime in the near future.

Touch the Fire!

I assume that every school has it's on initiation process, and Dartmouth has, in it's own unique way, incorporated a fire into it's initiation process. I remember hearing a lot about the bonfire-- which was to be built in the middle of the Green. Apparently, the tradition is for the incoming class to march around campus-- and eventually reach the Green, where the fire would be lit. Then the frenzy began.

I remember grabbing my floormate's hand and we began running around the fire-- tradition has it that you run round the fire as many times as your class year. We began running-- we wimped out at 13 laps, but I will never forget the frenzy and the intensity of that night.

It was raining and cold, but none of us really cared. The upperclassmen, also by tradition, stood around us-- pushing one of us 'touch the fire'. Of course, none of us were stupid enough to actually touch the fire, which is why we are now called 'the worst-class ever'.

As the fire lightly burnt our cheeks that night, I felt as though it left a permanent imprint in the minds of the '13s.

Yama's and Lexi's Birthday

Lexi's birthday celebration was last week-- and our entire floor, along with two of her friends from home went Yama's to celebrate with her.

It was a group of seven girls (plus Adam, another one of our floormates, always ready to celebrate!), gathered around a small table.

After the meal, the waiter brought out a scoop of pistachio ice cream with a solitary candle and we all began singing (although the singing quality was doubtful)....

Making our way down main street on the way back from the birthday dinner we all huddled together for warmth.

Simple moments like these are responsible for lasting memories.

Vandana's First Performance

I remember distinctly the day that I first performed with Vandana, the Indian dance troupe here at Dartmouth. I was a relatively new member-- my crazy fall schedule hadn't allowed me to show up for all the practices, but nonetheless, I was quickly welcomed into the small group.

It was beautiful fall day, and we all met in front of the Hop, and were picked up by members of the local church (where we were performing that day), and were taken to our location. The car ride to the church was interesting-- a few awkward giggles, mumbling, and pleasant conversation. But nothing seemed extraordinary about that day.

When we reached the church we all scrambled for our costumes and began imagining our steps-- anxious to perform well in front of the group. Perhaps most enjoyable about the entire excursion was the home-cooked Indian dinner we received-- and for some, we hadn't had decent Indian food in a while.

After dinner, the finals preparations for the performance were made.... I hadn't performed in a relatively long time, and the excitement was building up inside of me.

'Jai Ho' began playing and my group began to dance. I remember thinking about how magical it was to see a group of girls dance together. I was a girl who was unused to group dancing, and for me, this was amazing. Vandana truly made an impression on me.

Now, a term later, I still practice frequently with Vandana. In fact, today I had practice with Vandana's competitive dance troupe. With four girls and four guys, we are playing to change the way that the campus looks at Indian dance.

Bright new beginnings!

My Birthday

This past January 9th was my first birthday away from home. Silly as it might seem, I felt emotional throughout the course of the week-- but didn't let anyone know.

It was a Friday night, and my floor was getting ready for a fun night out. The girls on my floor (who have all grown very fond of each other) were playing around with make-up and we were having a blast.

Every time I tried to leave the room, I was urged not to go. In fact, I was forced to stay in my room.

At first I didn't understand, but then my roommate, who wasn't in the room previously knocked on the door and in a panicked voice told me that she was locked out our room. I panicked, knowing that I had left my key inside the room as well. As I ran to my room, she ran up behind me and steered me into the study room at the end of the hallway.

Imagine my surprise, when I found a group of friend standing around a large chocolate cake. Music was playing; I never expected such a great surprise.

It turns out that a lot of my surprise celebration had been orchestrated by my parents, along with the help of one of my newest, and closest friends her at Dartmouth, Krupa. My parents emailed her, asked her to organize everything, and she did so. And my floor amazed me.

My floormates and Krupa, took me out that night-- and I had the time of my life.

Any time I feel the least bit homesick, I go to my Dartmouth family for comfort!